Why Do We Focus on the Breath in Yoga and Mindfulness Meditation?
In yoga and mindfulness meditation, teachers often use the breath as an anchor onto which you focus your awareness and your intention. Why is focusing on the breath so important?
At first glance, the breath might seem to be a purely physical process, yet its impact extends far beyond mere oxygenation of the body. In this article we’ll delve into why we focus on the breath in these practices, and how it might influence your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
A Gateway to Mindful Awareness
Breath, a constant and rhythmic companion, is your most immediate and tangible link to the present moment. In yoga and meditation, it serves as an anchor, a tool to draw the wandering mind back from past regrets or future anxieties and into the 'now.' This act of focusing on the breath helps to cultivate mindfulness, a state of being aware and present in the moment, free from judgment or distraction.
A Bridge Between Mind and Body
Yoga and mindfulness meditation are deeply rooted in the harmony of mind and body. Breath acts as a bridge between the two, translating your mental states into physical sensations and vice versa. For instance, when you are stressed, your breath tends to become shallow and rapid. By consciously slowing and deepening the breath, you can signal the body to relax. And that in turn can influence your mental state.
The Physiological Perspective of Breath
Breathing is both involuntarily and voluntarily. That means that in general, you breathe whether you are conscious of it or not. But you are also capable of changing your breathing patterns, at least temporarily.
You can learn to modulate your breath through practices like pranayama in yoga or simply by taking deeper breaths in meditation. In doing so, you will stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is sometimes called the “rest and digest” system. So by activating it, you can induce a state of calm and relaxation, basically telling your mind and body that it’s ok to settle down and be at peace. This can counter the stress response that comes from the sympathetic nervous system, also known as your “fight, flight, or freeze” system.
The Psychological Dimension
In mindfulness meditation and in yoga, the breath acts as an anchor. Often referred to as pranayama, intentional breathing helps to keep your attention in the present moment. This focus helps to settle the familiar whirlwind of thoughts which are common sources of stress and mental turmoil. These might be thoughts about past regrets, future anxieties, or perceived deficiencies. While it may be important to address these at an appropriate time, the continued onslaught of these negative thoughts can pull you into a cycle of despair and inertia. Being able to let them go, even for just a few minutes, can be freeing.
When practiced regularly, gently focusing on the breath can offer a focal point to enhance concentration. By repeatedly and kindly bringing your attention back to the breath, you begin to develop a heightened sense of mental clarity. These skills are beneficial both on and off the mat, whether at work, at home, or in a creative practice.
The Spiritual Aspect
In many spiritual traditions, breath is synonymous with the life force energy (Prana in Sanskrit, Qi in Chinese). Focusing on breath in yoga and meditation is seen as a way to connect with and harness this vital energy, promoting inner balance and harmony. Through mastery, you may find a way to transcend the ordinary experiences of the mind and body.
In Conclusion
The breath, in its simplicity, offers a profound tool for transformation in yoga and mindfulness meditation. By focusing on the breath, you may cultivate a deeper sense of presence, well-being, and connection to the world around you.
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Always check with your physician for any health concerns, or before starting a new exercise program.
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